Need help with a flat tire?
MapQuest is introducing a roadside assistance option to its mobile app to help drivers with car troubles.
The new feature is the result of a collaboration between the Denver, Colorado-based web mapping service and D.C.-based startup Urgent.ly, according to PC Magazine.
Users will find this option extremely handy whenever they need a tire change, fuel delivery, tow, jump-start or lock-out service.
You can now also avoid leaving the MapQuest app when looking for and communicating with nearby road assistance vehicles, as well as when paying for services.
"Urgent.ly's model proves consumers are moving toward on-demand structures for everything, including roadside assistance," said Nate Abbott, head of production at MapQuest. "This integration allows MapQuest to provide a unique, pioneering service to our users without the inconvenience of antiquated systems."
Analytics firm comScore says MapQuest's 35-45 million monthly visitors obtained over the past year have helped the company rank second in online mapping services, The Denver Post reported.
MapQuest says about one-third of its users include those that have the MapQuest mobile app, and that this group contains a much younger user base than Waze and other competitors.
The "Roadside Assistance" button will appear in the menu bar of the app, and Urgent.ly will connect users with service providers after receiving information about the vehicle and the issue, PC Magazine reported. Once the service is completed the way the driver wants it to be, their credit card will be charged. You'll have to pay $75 for common issues like flat tires and lock-outs, as well as $99 for tows to places that are up to 15 miles away.
Users won't have to apply for a membership, as the new option does not come with a monthly or annual cost.
Urgent.ly currently offers emergency road assistance in 70 cities, and CEO Chris Spanos said the team-up with MapQuest will allow his company to provide its services across the U.S.
"For the first time, drivers will have access to transparent, reliable roadside help through a free navigation app, without membership fees or expensive auto club dues," Spanos said. "Because Urgent.ly offers flat-rate pricing and only charges drivers for services they actually use, we can provide help to millions of MapQuest users whenever and wherever they need it."
